2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 452 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 159 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1602 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
